Phoenix Auto Theft Attorney

Arrested for the Theft of a Motor Vehicle?

Theft is the act of unlawfully taking or using another person's property
without consent. Auto theft refers to the criminal act of stealing, taking,
or using another person's automobile without permission. You can also
be charged with auto theft for purchasing or borrowing an automobile you
know was stolen or unlawfully obtained. Auto theft is a felony offense
in Arizona which means you will automatically face at least one year in
prison if you are convicted of the charges, in addition to other adverse
legal penalties. If you have been charged with auto theft in Phoenix or
the surrounding areas, attorney Anthony Knowles can provide you with an
intelligent and resourceful defense to fight the prosecution and help
you overcome your criminal charges.

Auto Theft Defense in Phoenix, Arizona

Law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and judges take auto theft cases
very seriously and have no tolerance for people who violate the law by
stealing other people's property. Even if you took a car, but planned
to return it to the owner, you will still be charged with auto theft if
you are caught in the act by a law enforcement officer.

As auto theft is a felony offense, an auto theft conviction will result
in a number of legal consequences, such as no less than one year in jail
or prison, fines, restitution to the victim, probation, community service,
and more. To protect your rights and freedom, it's important to contact
an experienced Phoenix auto theft attorney at Knowles Law Firm, PLC as
soon as you have been arrested and charged with the crime. The sooner
you contact the firm, the sooner they can begin preparing your case.

Is it considered auto theft or joyriding?

The Arizona Criminal Code §13-1803 defines joyriding as the unlawful
use of means of transportation. To be convicted of this type of crime,
it must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt you knowingly acted to take
over the control of a means of transportation. This is classified as a
class 5 felony or a class 6 felony - much lighter than the class 3 felony
which is auto theft, or the theft of means of transportation. So what's
the difference between the two charges? The intent of the defendant.

If it was the defendant's intentions to permanently deprive the owner
of the vehicle, then it would be classified as auto theft - it not, it
would be classified as joyriding. If you have been criminally charged
with auto theft, even if you had no intentions of permanently taking the
care, it's in your best interests to get the involvement of an experienced
attorney who will be able to work with you to help get the charges reduced
to more reasonable terms.

Talk to a Phoenix Theft Lawyer From our Firm!

If you have been charged with auto theft, do not let your criminal charges
limit your rights and jeopardize your future. Attorney Anthony Knowles
has years of experience defending clients in Phoenix; he and his entire
legal team can provide you with the unrelenting dedication and zealous
defense you need to fight your charges. They understands what is at stake
for you if you are found guilty, and that's why they work tirelessly
to build a compelling and convincing defense case. They are 100% committed
to standing up for your rights, negating your charge, and negotiating
with the prosecution for a reduction or dismissal.

The information on this website is for general information purposes only.
Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual
case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt
or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.